How to mulch around a new tree

Q. I’ve heard that I should add mulch around a new tree after it’s been planted. What’s the right way to do that?

A. All trees (and perennials) benefit from a layer of mulch after they’ve been planted. Mulch prevents the soil from drying out and keeps the soil cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Two inches to three inches is enough to do the job – more is not better! A big mistake many people make when mulching trees is to place mulch right up against the trunk. Even worse is building a “Mulch Volcano” high up on the trunk. Instead, keep the mulch two inches to three inches away from the trunk to avoid girdling roots from developing and prevent problems with rot.